Best places to eat in Orlando

What are Orlando's must-try flavors?

Orlando, a city celebrated for its world-class theme parks, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and dynamic culinary scene that extends far beyond its tourist hubs. To truly experience the city's food culture, you need a comfortable and convenient base, and the B&B HOTEL Floridian Express offers the perfect starting point for your gastronomic journey. The city's cuisine is a melting pot of influences, blending Southern comfort food with Caribbean spice and Latin American zest. From casual eateries to upscale dining, Orlando offers an array of dishes to satisfy every palate, making it a top destination for food lovers exploring Central Florida. This guide will help you navigate the best local spots and discover the unique tastes that define the city's identity. Before diving into specific neighborhoods and restaurants, it is essential to know what local specialties to look for. Given its location in Florida, you will find an abundance of fresh seafood and citrus-infused dishes on many menus. For a uniquely Floridian experience, adventurous eaters should try gator tail, often served fried with a zesty dipping sauce. Other must-try dishes include Key Lime Pie for dessert, classic Southern shrimp and grits, and Cuban sandwiches, which reflect the state's rich cultural heritage. Exploring these local flavors is the best way to get an authentic taste of Orlando's culinary landscape and understand why it is a rising star in the food world.

Discover the city's diverse food scenes

Orlando's best dining experiences are often found within its distinct and vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and culinary focus. Moving beyond the theme parks allows you to discover the local spots and eateries that residents cherish. Exploring these different areas provides a more complete picture of the city's food culture, from the trendy and eclectic to the charming and upscale. Whether you are looking for a quick bite or a memorable multi-course meal, the city's neighborhoods have recommendations to fit every occasion and budget, ensuring a rewarding culinary adventure.

Explore the vibrant Disney Springs restaurants

Disney Springs serves as a premier destination for dining and entertainment, offering a vast collection of restaurants that cater to every taste. This bustling waterfront complex features everything from world-renowned restaurants by celebrity chefs to unique themed eateries and quick-service spots perfect for a casual meal. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it an ideal place to spend an evening after a day at the parks or exploring the city. If you are visiting other attractions, finding well-located hotels near SeaWorld can also enhance your trip's convenience. The sheer variety of culinary options at Disney Springs makes it a must-visit for any food enthusiast. The culinary diversity at Disney Springs is one of its greatest strengths. You can savor sophisticated Asian cuisine at Morimoto Asia, enjoy rustic Italian dishes at Terralina Crafted Italian, or indulge in modern American fare at The BOATHOUSE. For a more casual experience, the complex is home to numerous food trucks and kiosks offering gourmet treats. The combination of high-quality food, unique themes, and a vibrant setting ensures a memorable dining experience for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Planning a dinner here is an excellent way to add a touch of magic to your Orlando trip.

Find local favorites in the Milk District

For an authentic taste of local Orlando, head to the Milk District, a neighborhood known for its eclectic and independent spirit. This area is a hub for creative eateries, craft breweries, and laid-back bars, offering a refreshing alternative to the city's more tourist-focused zones. The vibe is decidedly casual, with a focus on quality ingredients and innovative concepts. The Milk District is where you can find some of the city's most beloved local spots, from award-winning barbecue joints to specialty ramen shops. The dining scene here reflects the neighborhood's artistic and community-driven character. You will find a strong emphasis on locally sourced food and unique culinary creations that you will not find anywhere else. It is the perfect place to grab a casual lunch, enjoy a food truck rally, or discover a new favorite brewery. For travelers with companions, there are even plenty of pet-friendly hotels in Orlando to make your stay complete. Exploring the Milk District offers a genuine glimpse into Orlando's thriving local food culture and is a top recommendation for those looking to eat like a resident.

Experience upscale dining in Winter Park

Just north of downtown Orlando lies Winter Park, a charming and affluent city known for its tree-lined streets, upscale boutiques, and sophisticated dining scene. Park Avenue is the heart of the neighborhood, featuring a collection of fine dining restaurants, European-inspired bistros, and chic wine bars. The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it the perfect setting for a special occasion dinner or a leisurely weekend brunch. Winter Park offers a refined culinary experience that contrasts with the high-energy pace of the theme parks. The restaurants in Winter Park often emphasize farm-to-table concepts and high-end culinary techniques, with menus crafted by some of the region's top chefs. You can expect to find exquisite contemporary American cuisine, authentic French and Italian dishes, and an impressive selection of international wines. A stroll down Park Avenue, with its scenic Central Park and boutique shops, complements the dining experience. For those seeking a more polished and upscale meal, Winter Park stands out as one of the best dining destinations in the greater Orlando area.

Find the perfect meal for your trip

Finding the perfect meal in Orlando is all about matching your dining experience to the style of your trip. Whether you are on a family vacation, a business trip, or a solo adventure, the city's culinary landscape has something to offer. This guide provides recommendations for different types of experiences, from immersive food halls to entertainment-packed dinner shows. Knowing your options will help you make the most of your time and create lasting food memories during your visit to Central Florida.

Eat like a local at East End Market

East End Market, located in the Audubon Park Garden District, is a vibrant food hub that captures the essence of Orlando's local food movement. This innovative market features a curated selection of food artisans, merchants, and chefs all under one roof. It is a place where you can grab a gourmet coffee, enjoy freshly baked goods, savor artisanal cheeses, or sit down for a full meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients. B&B HOTELS offers a range of hotels in Orlando, providing a comfortable stay while you explore these local treasures. East End Market is more than just a place to eat; it is a community gathering spot that celebrates Central Florida's farmers and food creators. The market offers a diverse range of culinary delights, from fresh juices and craft sandwiches to authentic Japanese ramen and decadent cakes. The two-story space is also home to a large patio and garden, providing a beautiful setting to enjoy your food. A visit to East End Market is a fantastic way to support local businesses and experience the authentic, creative side of Orlando's food scene. It is an essential stop for any foodie looking to discover the city's hidden gems.

Enjoy dinner and a show on International Drive

International Drive, or I-Drive, is Orlando's primary tourist corridor and a hub for entertainment-focused dining. Here, you will find a wide array of dinner shows and themed restaurants that combine a meal with a live performance. These experiences range from medieval jousting tournaments and mystery dinner theaters to pirate adventures and magic shows. For those attending events, choosing from the hotels near the Orange County Convention Center can be a practical choice. This area is the perfect choice for families and groups looking for an all-in-one evening of food and fun. While the focus is often on entertainment, many of these venues offer substantial, multi-course meals that cater to a broad audience. The themed environments are highly immersive, transporting you to another world for the evening. Booking a dinner and a show on International Drive provides a classic Orlando experience that is both memorable and entertaining. It is an excellent way to add a unique and interactive element to your vacation itinerary.

Try a magical character dining experience

A trip to Orlando is not complete for many visitors without a magical character dining experience. This popular activity allows you to enjoy a meal in the company of beloved characters from famous movies and stories. These experiences are available both inside the major theme parks and at select resort hotels, offering opportunities for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Staying at one of the hotels near Universal Studios can place you in the heart of the action. Character dining is a quintessential Orlando activity that creates unforgettable memories, especially for families with children. The meals are typically served buffet-style or as a family-style platter, featuring a wide variety of crowd-pleasing dishes. As you dine, characters circulate through the restaurant, stopping at each table for photos, autographs, and personal interactions. Due to their immense popularity, these dining experiences often book up months in advance. It is highly recommended to make reservations as early as possible to secure your spot for this uniquely enchanting meal.